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Editorial Review by Gregory Dal Piaz:

Milky oak on the nose with nice herb and spicy tones lurking in the background though this smells a bit acidic and hard. On entry this is dry, clean and rather tight yet with nicely balanced notes of vanilla and hard blackberry fruit. The wood comes off as a bit raw with drying tannins but the finish is spicy and complex with notes that recall cherry Dr. Pepper. 88pts

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The choice of grape varieties is a combination of local viticultural tradition–indigenous Negroamaro, Primitivo and Malvasia Nera–with scientific vineyard management through a careful selection of clones and root stocks. The tufa (‘rocks’) of local soils contribute structure to the wine, aid in drainage for the vines, and reflect the light, helping the sun’s work for the vines. Dug out of subte... Read more

The choice of grape varieties is a combination of local viticultural tradition–indigenous Negroamaro, Primitivo and Malvasia Nera–with scientific vineyard management through a careful selection of clones and root stocks. The tufa (‘rocks’) of local soils contribute structure to the wine, aid in drainage for the vines, and reflect the light, helping the sun’s work for the vines. Dug out of subterranean rock, the geometric-shaped cellar houses 1,000 barriques and modern temperature-controlled systems that allow small parcels of grapes to be vinified separately. Read less

Editorial Reviews for Castello Monaci Primitivo Salento IGT Piluna

Milky oak on the nose with nice herb and spicy tones lurking in the background though this smells a bit acidic and hard. On entry this is dry, clean and rather tight yet with nicely balanced notes of vanilla and hard blackberry fruit. The wood comes off as a bit raw with drying tannins but the finish is spicy and complex with notes that recall cherry Dr. Pepper. 88pts

Member Reviews for Castello Monaci Primitivo Salento IGT Piluna

I will not pretend to know what I am talking about by mentioning "notes" and "aromas", but the very first time I tasted this wonderful wine there was just one bottle to share between several people. It was so exceptional that I could not get it out of my mind. I had to have some more. I went from store to store looking for it in my area but was unable to locate it. Finally I special ordered a case which I thought I might regret as I might get tired of it. But I did not. In fact I ordered another case. Everyone I have shared this wine with has loved it! Just try one bottle, but beware--you may get hooked!

External Reviews for Castello Monaci Primitivo Salento IGT Piluna

Source: Premier Wine & Spirits

05/23/2011

A very precise mineral quality that recalls slate roof and granite defines this wine and delivers a linear and drying experience overall. The wine has charm and elegance with lingering spice notes on the finish.

The 2008 Primitivo Piluna comes across as a bit light in the vintage. The style is somewhat fleeting, although the plums, tobacco and perfumed spices are quite attractive. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2012.

The 2007 Primitivo Pilna flows from the glass with waves of dark red fruit. This generous, ripe wine should continue to drink well for at least another year or two. It is another incredibly delicious value-priced red from Castello Monaci. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011.

The 2006 Primitivo Piluna is a wine of uncommon beauty. This vibrant, pure red shimmers on the palate with layers of dark cherries, sweet herbs, licorice and tobacco. It offers outstanding length and terrific balance. Readers who havenrsquo;t discovered Primitivo owe it to themselves to do so. This is a great starting point. Anticipated maturity: 2008ndash;2011.